Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) where parties involved in a dispute agree to submit their case to an impartial third party, known as the arbitrator(s). The arbitrator(s) review the evidence and make a binding decision, called an arbitral award, which is enforceable by law.

Arbitration differs from litigation in several ways. It is a private process, providing parties with greater control over the proceedings, choice of arbitrators, and the ability to select their own rules and procedures. Arbitration is also typically faster and more cost-effective than court litigation.